The Cowboys are happily playing their home opener today after going literally coast to coast (New York to Seattle) for their first two games. The Bucs have a challenge similar to last week because Dallas has a talented front line, including star pass rusher DeMarcus Ware. Dallas also has a formidable lineup of offensive skill-position players, including RB DeMarco Murray and WR Dez Bryant.

Cowboys' top offensive player

QB Tony Romo, maligned as he may be, is one of the very best. His 153 TD passes since 2006 ranks sixth among active players and he has the second-best career passer rating (96.6) in history.

Cowboys' top defensive player

When Bucs coach Greg Schiano cued up Cowboys tape last week, LB DeMarcus Ware jumped off the screen. With 101½ career sacks, the six-time Pro Bowl pick has a chance to top the Cowboys' all-time sack list by season's end.

What the Cowboys do best

While it wasn't evident last week in a loss to Seattle, the Cowboys have a quick-strike offense that can surprise defenses. If Romo has sufficient time for routes to develop, he has numerous big-play options to throw to. After giving up 510 passing yards to the Giants last week, this is a problem for the Bucs.

How you beat the Cowboys

The Seahawks put the blueprint for this on tape last week, dominating time of possession 34:39 to 25:21. That helps neutralize Dallas' offensive firepower and keeps its stars on the sideline. The Bucs have to run effectively to pull this off.

The Bucs must avoid

An early deficit would make the Bucs one-dimensional. Given their struggles running last week, they need to show some more consistency in this area.